Governance

Additionally Commissioners have formally adopted the following Seven Principles of Public Life, which apply to all aspects of public life, and have agreed to be bound by them. The Committee on Standards in Public Life, which is an independent public body and which advises government on ethical standards across the whole of public life in the UK, has set them out for the benefit of all who serve the public in any way.

SELFLESSNESSHolders of public office should act solely in terms of the public interest. They should not do so in order to gain financial or other material benefits for themselves, their family, or their friends.

INTEGRITYHolders of public office should not place themselves under any financial or other obligation to outside individuals or organisations that might seek to influence them in the performance of their official duties.

OBJECTIVITYIn carrying out public business, including making public appointments, awarding contracts, or recommending individuals for rewards and benefits, holders of public office should make choices on merit.

ACCOUNTABILITYHolders of public office are accountable for their decisions and actions to the public and must submit themselves to whatever scrutiny is appropriate to their office.

OPENNESSHolders of public office should be as open as possible about all the decisions and actions that they take. They should give reasons for their decisions and restrict information only when the wider public interest clearly demands.

HONESTYHolders of public office have a duty to declare any private interests relating to their public duties and to take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the public interest.

LEADERSHIPHolders of public office should promote and support these principles by leadership and example.

Established by order under The Scotland Act 1998 (River Tweed) Order 2006